Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook the rice for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and all the water has been absorbed. Once done, set the rice aside.

2. Make the Pudding Base

In the same saucepan (or another large pot), combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring often to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally until the pudding begins to thicken—this should take about 15-20 minutes.

3. Temper the Eggs

While the rice mixture is simmering, beat the eggs in a small bowl. To avoid scrambling the eggs, you’ll need to temper them by slowly adding a little bit of the hot rice mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly. This gradual process warms the eggs without cooking them prematurely.

Once you’ve added about 1/2 cup of the hot mixture to the eggs, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rice pudding while stirring constantly. This step helps create a creamy, smooth consistency for the pudding.

4. Finish Cooking the Rice Pudding

Continue cooking the rice pudding over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 5-10 minutes. Keep in mind that the pudding will continue to thicken as it cools. If you like a thinner pudding, you can add a little more milk to adjust the texture.

5. Add the Raisins and Vanilla

Once the rice pudding has thickened, stir in the vanilla extract and raisins (if using). The raisins add a burst of sweetness that complements the creamy, spiced rice. Let the pudding cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the raisins are heated through.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the pudding is done, remove it from the heat. Spoon it into bowls or individual serving dishes. You can enjoy it warm, or refrigerate it for a few hours if you prefer it cold.

For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle a little ground nutmeg on top before serving. This adds a fragrant, cozy touch that’s perfect for the fall and winter months.

Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding

• Stir Often: Stirring the pudding regularly as it simmers ensures that the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan and that the milk doesn’t scorch.
• Adjust Consistency: If your pudding becomes too thick, simply add a little extra milk or cream until you reach the desired consistency. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s a little looser while it’s still hot.
• Raisins or Not: If you’re not a fan of raisins, feel free to leave them out or substitute them with another dried fruit like currants or chopped dates.
• For Extra Creaminess: If you love ultra-creamy rice pudding, substitute some of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.

Why This Recipe is a Classic

Old-fashioned rice pudding is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and warmth to any table. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the ingredients are simple and affordable. The balance of sweetness from the sugar and raisins, along with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, makes for a dessert that feels nostalgic and comforting. Plus, it’s a perfect make-ahead treat, as rice pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.

Whether you serve it at a family dinner, as an after-school snack, or just to satisfy a craving for something sweet, this recipe for Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its creamy texture and warm flavors, it’s the perfect dessert to enjoy on a cozy evening.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned rice pudding is one of those dishes that has stood the test of time for a reason—it’s simple, comforting, and utterly delicious. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a rich, creamy dessert that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, topped with raisins, or with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg, this rice pudding recipe is perfect for any occasion.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that feels like home, give this old-fashioned rice pudding a try—you won’t regret it!